What is the Science of Reading?

Science of Reading is a term that refers to the body of research that has explored how people learn to read and write, and how to teach them effectively. It is based on evidence from various disciplines, such as cognitive psychology, neuroscience, linguistics, and education (Source: edresearch.edu.au).

The Science of Reading challenges some of the common assumptions and practices in literacy instruction, such as the idea that reading is a natural process that can be learned through exposure and practice, or that there is a single best method for teaching all students. Instead, it emphasizes the importance of understanding the underlying skills and processes that enable reading comprehension, such as phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and morphology (Source: nwea.org).

The Science of Reading also recognizes that reading is not a uniform skill, but rather a complex and dynamic one that varies depending on the reader, the text, and the context. Therefore, it advocates for differentiated and responsive instruction that meets the needs of diverse learners and supports their motivation and engagement.

The Science of Reading is not a new concept. It is a synthesis of decades of research findings validated by rigorous studies and reviews. However, it is still not widely known or implemented in many classrooms and schools. The Science of Reading aims to bridge the gap between research and practice by providing educators with the knowledge and tools they need to teach reading effectively and equitably.